03/21/2025
Today, I had the honor of displaying a traditional Korean outfit at Highland Park High School.
This particular garment was worn by the crown prince during the Joseon Dynasty and is also used in modern times for a Korean wedding ceremony called Paebaek.
Paebaek is a deeply symbolic tradition, and interestingly, it is the only time when commoners were historically allowed to wear garments inspired by royal attire—clothing that would otherwise be reserved strictly for the royal family.
In the Joseon era, kings typically wore deep crimson or red, symbolizing authority and power. Crown princes often wore blue, like the one on display today, representing integrity and wisdom. Other royal family members who were not in the direct line of succession wore garments in green or purple, each with its own hierarchical significance.
It was a meaningful opportunity to share this beautiful part of Korean heritage with the community.
